When it comes to choosing a faucet, the type you select can affect how well the fixture works for years. Consider your preferred aesthetic and space as you research the options.
A gooseneck faucet’s elevated arc mimics the neck of a geese, but these tall fixtures may run into trouble when they sit beneath cabinets or window sills. A more compact pull-out style, meanwhile, can provide the flexibility to reach hard-to-reach corners.
Single-Handle Faucets
Unlike double faucets, single-handle models allow you to control both the water temperature and flow with one hand. This makes them ideal for people with arthritis or other hand issues that make it difficult to grasp two handles. They also make it harder to accidentally turn on hot water, which can pose a safety risk for kids.
They're also easier to install, as they usually require a single combination handle-and-spout unit or just one sink hole compared to the two needed for traditional faucets. Find styles in chrome, stainless steel and other finishes to suit any kitchen aesthetic. They're also less expensive than double-handle fixtures.
Two-Handle Faucets
If you’re looking for a sleek kitchen faucet with modern controls, check out this budget-friendly option. This affordable faucet is simple to use and has a stylish, modern look. It has a lever handle that controls water temperature and a spray setting for rinsing. It also has a pause feature that helps prevent splashing during multitasking.
This smart faucet lets you activate the sensor by a simple wave of your hand or by moving something around the sink.
Wideset Faucets
Faucets that are installed in the sink rather than in the countertop save space and streamline installation. They typically have long water-supply hoses that allow you to make connections lower in the sink cabinet where tools are easier to reach.
Depending on the faucet's style, its spout may rotate or retract to help rinse dishes and the sink. Some models have a pullout spout that's useful for reaching hard-to-reach spots, such as on top of a backsplash or window ledge.
Our modern kitchen faucets offer Duo-Spout Flow, which allows you to easily transition from a steady stream to powerful spray with just the turn of a knob. They're also designed to fit a wide range of sink set-ups and include a side sprayer and soap dispenser for a 4-hole installation.
Pre-Rinse Faucets
Often seen in commercial kitchens, pre-rinse faucets offer high-powered spray to clear away stuck-on food residue from plates, cookware and more before they head into the dishwasher. These faucets typically come with dual-function sprayheads and docking systems to keep the hose securely attached.
Whether you choose to match or contrast your kitchen faucet with other hardware and fixtures, make sure the finish is durable enough for heavy use. Rust and corrosion can weaken your faucet's structure over time.
Side Sprayer Faucets
A side sprayer kitchen faucet has a separate hose attached to the sink that can be used to wash dishes and hard-to-reach areas in your sink. These sprayer attachments typically connect to the faucet through a diverter valve and retract beneath the countertop when not in use.
Upgrade your sink with a sleek brushed nickel or oil-rubbed bronze side sprayer that adds style and functionality to any sink configuration. The durable stainless steel hose is easy to maneuver and has a large spray pattern for rinsing larger pots and pans.
To install a side sprayer, your sink must have an open hole and a water diverter that's properly sized for the hose to attach. If not, you can drill a new one with a basin wrench or slip-joint pliers.
Pot Filler Faucets
A pot filler (also known as a kettle faucet or pasta arm) is a specialized kitchen faucet installed above your stove that lets you fill large cooking vessels right where they sit, instead of carrying heavy pots of water across the kitchen. These double-jointed faucets typically fold away when not in use, and they're available in a range of styles to suit any design aesthetic.
While a pot filler adds to your kitchen's overall cost and may require professional installation, it also ranks among the top upgrades that boost home value.
Conclusion
Whether you're remodeling your kitchen or simply replacing a fixture, understanding the different types of kitchen faucets can help you make a smart, functional choice. Consider your cooking habits, space limitations, and design goals to choose the faucet that best fits your needs. From sleek single-handle models to robust pre-rinse fixtures, the right faucet can elevate your kitchen’s efficiency and style.